Ferrari boasts a storied heritage of crafting groundbreaking, limited-production supercars, from the 288 GTO to the F40, F50, and Enzo. These models not only commemorated Ferrari’s legacy but also cemented its position as a builder of the most exceptional sports cars. However, by the early 2010s, the emergence of hybrid-electric hypercars from rivals like McLaren and Porsche presented a new challenge to Ferrari’s dominance. Responding with its characteristic competitive spirit, Ferrari unveiled the LaFerrari at the 2013 Geneva International Motor Show, a hypercar designed to surpass its predecessors in every metric. Its name, simply “LaFerrari”—Italian for “The Ferrari”—was a bold declaration of its significance. Upon its release, the LaFerrari’s specifications, design, and engineering unequivocally justified its confident moniker.
At the core of the 2014 Ferrari Laferrari is a formidable, mid-rear mounted 6.3-liter V-12 engine, directly derived from the FXX experimental model. This naturally aspirated powerplant features an astonishing 13.5:1 compression ratio, delivering 789 horsepower and reaching a redline at an astounding 9,250 rpm. The engine produces 516 pound-feet of torque, peaking just under 7,000 rpm. To enhance responsiveness and low-end acceleration, Ferrari incorporated a Formula 1-derived Kinetic Energy Recovery System (KERS) electric motor at the rear, contributing an additional 161 horsepower. This hybrid system channels power exclusively to the rear wheels through a rapid-shifting seven-speed dual-clutch transaxle.
The combined output of the V-12 engine and electric motor results in a staggering 949 horsepower and 663 pound-feet of torque. This immense power catapults the aerodynamically sculpted LaFerrari from 0 to 60 mph in a mere 2.4 seconds. It completes the quarter-mile sprint in just 9.7 seconds, achieving a speed of 149.2 mph, outperforming both the Bugatti Veyron and the Porsche 918 Spyder in these benchmarks. Larry Webster from Road & Track, after test driving the LaFerrari, noted its driving experience was “closer to driving an LMP car than, say, a 458 Speciale,” highlighting its track-focused performance.
The LaFerrari’s chassis utilizes a carbon-fiber tub, constructed using the same processes as Ferrari’s Formula 1 cars. The entire vehicle architecture is designed around the driver’s seating position, which is positioned 2.4 inches lower than the Enzo. The seats, upholstered in leather and Alcantara, are directly mounted to the floor and rear firewall. To ensure a bespoke fit, the pedals are adjustable, and each seat is custom-padded to the buyer’s specifications.
Ferrari’s in-house design director, Flavio Manzoni, penned the LaFerrari’s exterior. The design is characterized by its low-slung, elegant profile, a departure from the more aggressive, angular lines of the Enzo. Active aerodynamic elements are seamlessly integrated, including intelligent front and rear underbody flaps and a rear spoiler. These continuously adjust downforce between 200 and 800 pounds, optimizing traction and stability at all speeds. To ensure exceptional stopping power, the LaFerrari is equipped with massive cross-drilled and ventilated Brembo carbon-ceramic disc brakes and bespoke Pirelli P-Zero Corsa tires, providing immense grip during high-speed cornering.
Production of the LaFerrari concluded in January 2016, with a limited run of just 499 examples. This exclusivity is a hallmark of Ferrari’s top-tier hypercars. Priced at over $1.3 million when new, all 499 units were pre-sold to Ferrari’s most esteemed clients even before the first car was completed.
LAFERRARI BLU ELETTRICO: A UNIQUE SPECIMEN
Among these exceptional machines, one LaFerrari stands out: the Blu Elettrico example, commissioned by renowned Ferrari collector Greg Whitten through Ferrari of Seattle. Mr. Whitten’s Ferrari collection is legendary, encompassing historically significant race and sports cars, alongside uniquely tailored modern Ferraris. His discerning taste was highlighted in 2018 when he entrusted RM Sotheby’s with the auction of his 1962 Ferrari 250 GTO, chassis 3413. This exceptional GTO achieved a record-breaking $48.4 million, the highest price ever paid for a Ferrari at auction.
As a highly valued Ferrari VIP, Greg Whitten secured an early allocation for the LaFerrari. His custom specification was eagerly anticipated by the factory and dealership. He chose the striking and vibrant Blu Elettrico exterior, paired with a luxurious Crema full leather interior – making it the only LaFerrari in this color combination. Further enhancing its uniqueness, this LaFerrari features magnesium gray wheels, black brake calipers, a gloss black roof, and headrests embroidered with the iconic Cavallino Rampante emblem. Delivered in December 2014, it was maintained exclusively by Ferrari of Seattle until its acquisition by the current owner in September 2021. Currently based in Colorado, its maintenance is overseen by Blue Chip, a collection management company. Having covered only 3,186 miles, this LaFerrari is reported to be in perfect working order and benefits from a non-transferable “LaFerrari Power” extended warranty obtained through Ferrari of Denver. Ferrari Classiche has certified this exceptional car with a “Yellow Book,” further attesting to its authenticity and provenance.
The 2014 Ferrari LaFerrari, Ferrari’s pioneering foray into hybrid technology, has rapidly become an icon in the hypercar world. Its breathtaking design and unparalleled performance solidify its place as one of the greatest road-going Ferraris ever created, with this unique Blu Elettrico example representing the pinnacle of LaFerrari collectibility.
